Which vaccine is critical for staff in nursing homes to receive to protect vulnerable populations?

The influenza vaccine is critical for staff in nursing homes because influenza can be particularly severe among older adults and people with underlying health conditions, who are the main residents in these facilities. Nursing home staff who receive the influenza vaccine help to create a protective barrier for the residents, reducing the risk of influenza spreading within the facility. High vaccination rates among staff can significantly decrease the incidence of influenza outbreaks, which can lead to serious complications or even hospitalization for vulnerable populations.

While the pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumonia, especially in older adults, and the shingles and HPV vaccines provide important protections against other diseases, the annual influenza vaccine is specifically highlighted in infection prevention protocols to prevent the seasonal outbreaks that can severely impact nursing home residents.